9 Aug 2012

Attacks on RTI Activists

There have been reports in the media that some persons have been killed or attacked allegedly for exercising their right under the RTI Act, 2005. 
Data is not centrally maintained. However, media has reported that Sh. Ramesh Agrawal, a green activist, who was exercising right to information, was shot at on 7th July, 2012 in Chhattisgarh. 
The framework of existing laws such as Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code etc. is considered adequate to provide for safety and security to all citizens, including RTI activists.
Further, RTI Activists and whistle blowers will also get protection under the “Whistle Blowers Protection Bill, 2011” passed by the Lok Sabha on 27.12.2011 and is presently in the Rajya Sabha. 
Maintenance of law and order and providing safety and security for all citizens is primarily the subject matter of State Government concerned. Government of India has drawn the attention of State Governments to the reports appearing in the media about the victimization of people, who use RTI to expose corruption and irregularities in administration. The States have been requested that if any such instance comes to their notice, it should be promptly inquired into and action taken against the offenders.
This was stated by Sh. V. Narayanasamy, Minister of State in the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions and Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office in the Rajya Sabha today. 

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